In this paper we trace some of the key points in the history of Science and Technology Studies (STS). In particular we outline the inherently political dynamics of the field. Against We underline two ... [more ▼]

In this paper we trace some of the key points in the history of Science and Technology Studies (STS). In particular we outline the inherently political dynamics of the field. Against We underline two emerging patterns in the curse of STS: the one of “depoliticisation” and the one of increasing “engagement”. We address the case study nanotechnologies and discuss their intertwined history with the STS. This allows us to point at the risk that the increasing institutionalisation of STS and the political mandate that frames and stabilizes the field’s relationship to the technological developments would create a political void. We conclude that STS research is at a crossroads. It is facing an important empirical turn, which may deprive it from its political significance, and constantly redefine its institutional constraints. STS has to continuously question its underlying political assumptions (as it occurs more and more regarding public participation) and to make it explicit. [less ▲]

We investigate how modal meanings can emerge in nominal patterns, an under-researched source construction for modal meanings. We specifically look at how the combination of the noun need/needs with ... [more ▼]

We investigate how modal meanings can emerge in nominal patterns, an under-researched source construction for modal meanings. We specifically look at how the combination of the noun need/needs with negation markers of various kinds leads to such modal meanings related to the deontic and epistemic domain. [less ▲]

Abstract This paper first analyses how important earthquake-induced landslide hazards are compared to other geohazards at world-wide scale. Further, we will outline where these hazards may have the ... [more ▼]

Abstract This paper first analyses how important earthquake-induced landslide hazards are compared to other geohazards at world-wide scale. Further, we will outline where these hazards may have the strongest impacts—at regional and local scale. In this regard, we consider the short-and long-term effects of geological, tectonic, climatic and morphological conditions. Hazard and risk related to these processes will also be analysed on the basis of a series of case histories: eg, the 1920 Haiyuan earthquake-landslide disaster in China. A ... [less ▲]